A Washington County grand jury on Friday indicted a Forest Grove man who allegedly slit the throat of his family's Golden Retriever.

Michael Burns, 45, faces aggravated animal abuse, animal abuse and animal neglect charges after reportedly killing 5-year-old Emma on Dec. 1 in his home in the 1100 block of Nichols Lane, said Sgt. Vance Stimler, a Washington County Sheriff's spokesman. Burns was booked into the county jail on Dec. 8 in connection with the death and was released the same day on his own recognizance, Stimler added.

Burns told investigators the canine attacked him when he tried disciplining her after she pooped on a floor in the home. He claims he cut the dog's throat in self-defense, Stimler said.

Burns is scheduled to appear in Washington County Circuit Court on Feb. 4.